I've been working at the Good Housekeeping Institute for over 12 years, and one of the best parts of my job has been discovering and trying out new products alongside our team of scientists and product experts. Earlier this year, I was taste-testing entries for the Good Housekeeping Best Snack Awards and was assigned to try Awake's caffeinated chocolate.
To be honest, this isn't something I ever would have picked up on my own, let alone thought to try. But now that I have? I'm completely hooked. I've even found myself raving about it to coworkers and friends, and those who have tried it agree.
A sweet little energy boost
Here’s the deal: each piece of chocolate contains 50 milligrams of caffeine, which is about as much as a half a cup of coffee. I’ve found it to be the perfect afternoon pick-me-up — especially during those long workdays when the post-lunch slump hits hard, or on weekends when I’m nonstop with my kids.
It gives me just enough energy to keep going without feeling jittery or like I’ll be up all night. Plus, it doubles as a satisfying treat — because let’s be honest, it's more enjoyable than half a cup of coffee after lunch.
Surprisingly tasty chocolate
Though it's caffeinated, Awake chocolate doesn't taste like coffee at all. The chocolate itself is genuinely delicious—rich, smooth and satisfying. In fact, I can eat just one and not feel tempted to go for another. It comes in milk chocolate or dark chocolate, with several flavor varieties, including solid chocolates and fillings with caramel, peanut butter and more. I've tried most flavors, and while I'm a big fan across the board, milk chocolate caramel is my personal favorite. And yes, it won a GH Snack Award for best caffeinated chocolate.
The bottom line: Is Awake's caffeinated chocolate worth the splurge?
Awake isn’t your average drugstore chocolate, and the bites are typically sold in packs of 50, meaning the cost to purchase adds up. But the large packs do last a while, and I find it to be worth it — especially because it's a small luxury that makes a big difference in my day.
Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.
